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If you are working up an appetite in Santa Monica, afterwards you have plenty of options for post-workout nourishment. One of the best, healthy options for lunch or dinner is Cha Cha Chicken. Needless to say, they serve chicken in many varieties. Their menu is contemporary-styled and the range makes it so many visitors can find something that they’ll love. The location is conveniently located just south of the boardwalk, which alleviates congestion. Although their main dishes are primarily poultry based, there still numerous options for the vegetarians or picky any eaters in the bunch.

What Makes it Great

Santa Monica is lovely, that being said the food options are quite polarized. Most food around the boardwalk is either extremely upscale sit down dining or low cost street food. Thus, finding something that is neither a gut nor wallet bomb is crucial. Cha Cha is the rare happy medium in a landscape of the extreme.

If you are out on a road run to Venice, roaming around the boardwalk, or cycling up Pacific Coast Highway then Cha Cha Chicken is a convenient protein packed post-ride meal. The restaurant is located just two short blocks from the beach on the corner of Pico Boulevard and Ocean Avenue. From the Ocean Front Walk, turn up Pico, which is just a few hundred feet south of the boardwalk, continue to Ocean Avenue, Cha Cha will be on your right. If you are driving, parking can often be found on Ocean Avenue just south of the restaurant.

The food can be described as Caribbean cuisine with Latin influences. Depending on your mood, they likely have an option for you. If you’re feeling calorie deprived, the Coconut Fried Chicken might be the best option, while the namesake Cha Cha Chicken would be a bit healthier. Vegetarians will love the Arroz No Pollo – Spanish rice with veggie stew. The Hispanic options aren’t limited, with mole pablano, quesadillas, and enchiladas on the menu.

Who’s Going to Love It

In an area that is predominantly upscale eateries, Cha Cha has found a way to retain their beach vibes. If you love the idea of walking off the beach and sitting down to a nice dinner, while still sandy, then this might be for you. Their protein rich, healthy meals in a casual environment make for very comfortable experience. Entrees range from $8-15, but most plates are about $10 – hopefully it won’t break the bank.

Parking and Directions

From the 10 Freeway, take the 4th Street exit and turn left onto 4th Street. At the third stop-light turn right onto Pico Boulevard. Cha Cha Chicken will be two blocks ahead at the intersection of Pico and Ocean Ave/Neilson Way. If you take a slight left onto Ocean Ave, you might be able to find street parking. From the Ocean Front Walk, turn up Pico, which is just a few hundred feet south of the boardwalk, continue to Ocean Avenue, Cha Cha will be on your right.